Steve Bruce has told the Chronicle that Newcastle United’s Isaac Hayden put in his best performance for the club on Sunday.
Newcastle battered Sheffield United 3-0 at the weekend, in what was arguably their finest performance so far under Bruce.
Hayden’s combative display in midfield helped Newcastle pick up the three points, as he really set the tone for his side.
And Bruce says that Hayden’s performance is the best of his time at St. James’ Park so far.
“I thought it was Isaac’s best performance under me since I’ve been at the club,” Bruce said.
“That didn’t surprise me because when we came back in, he was in terrific shape, battling to go.”
Hayden’s contract at Newcastle is actually due to expire at the end of next season, with his future very uncertain.
But Bruce wants to keep the former Arsenal man around.
“I’ve said from day one that I’d love Isaac to stay,” the Magpies boss added.
“He’s the sort of type the club’s been built around since the Championship but, obviously, there are personal circumstances that he’s got and we’ll keep plugging away and see what we can do.”
Hayden has played a vital role under Bruce so far, making 30 appearances for Newcastle to date across all competitions.
The tenacious midfielder could well start again for Newcastle this evening, when they take on Aston Villa.
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